Creating a lush green lawn is a dream for many of us, but knowing the ideal time to lay turf can be crucial for its success. Contrary to popular belief, turf can be laid throughout the year with proper planning and consideration for seasonal variations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each month, highlighting the best practices and considerations for laying turf, ensuring your lawn thrives regardless of the season.
WINTER TURF LAYING GUIDE – BEST PRACTICES FOR COLD CONDITIONS
Despite the cold and frosty conditions that characterise January and February, these months present an opportunity for laying turf when the ground is firm and manageable. Turf is resilient and can withstand temperatures below 10 degrees. However, it’s crucial to account for a brief defrosting period, particularly in the morning or upon delivery of the turf rolls.
The period from November to January can also pose challenges due to potential wet conditions, requiring meticulous planning and preparation. As part of this planning, you might want to consider incorporating our bagged dry topsoil into the final groundwork to ensure optimal conditions for turf establishment.
SPRING TURF INSTALLATION TIPS – MAXIMISING GROWTH POTENTIAL
As the days lengthen and temperatures begin to rise, March marks an excellent time to start laying your new turf. With early signs of spring growth, the environment becomes conducive to turf establishment. Allowing approximately four weeks for the turf to take root, ensure adequate watering, particularly if climatic conditions turn warm and dry. Checking the soil moisture underneath can guide your watering regimen, optimising the turf’s growth.
TOP STRATEGIES FOR LAYING TURF IN APRIL
Considered by some as the best month for turf laying, April offers favourable conditions for rapid establishment. Despite the potential for warmer weather, which could cause turf to deteriorate, proper watering and care can facilitate quick rooting in less than four weeks. However, be mindful of April showers, as they may mitigate the need for extensive watering, ensuring your new lawn is ready to use within a mere three weeks. Don’t forget to prepare the area for turfing by using fertiliser and having good irrigation.
MAY TURF LAYING TECHNIQUES
Sharing similarities with April, May presents another good window for laying turf. With warmer days on the horizon, the lifespan of turf in rolls diminishes to approximately 24 hours so you want to be planning delivery around the days you are going to install the turf. Nevertheless, prompt watering can expedite establishment, resulting in a robust lawn ready for use within three weeks.
SUMMER TURF INSTALLATION – OVERCOMING HEAT CHALLENGES
The summer months, spanning from June to August, pose challenges for laying turf due to hotter weather conditions. It’s imperative to store turf in a cool environment and lay it swiftly to prevent drying out. While hot and dry conditions may not be optimal, cooler temperatures coupled with ample irrigation can facilitate rapid turf establishment. Planning becomes crucial during this period, with irrigation being a primary focus to counteract potential degradation of turf rolls.
You also need to be cautious of turf heating during this period when temperatures are high. Turf heating refers to the damage that occurs when turf rolls are exposed to high temperatures and humidity while being transported or stored. This can happen very quickly, often within 24 hours of the turf being harvested.
SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER – CAPITALISING ON IDEAL WEATHER
With higher ground temperatures and natural precipitation, September and October emerge as prime months for returfing gardens. Turf can last longer in rolls compared to the summer months, providing an extended window for establishment. Additionally, the onset of autumn ensures the turf has ample time to root, resulting in a mature lawn ready for the following spring.
NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER – MAKING THE MOST OF COOLER CONDITIONS
Similar to the earlier months of the year, November and December offer reasonable conditions for laying turf, provided the ground remains firm. Even in softer conditions, meticulous preparation allows for turf laying, especially with the use of boards for support. As the year draws to a close, leveraging the cooler temperatures and firm ground can set the stage for a thriving lawn in the coming seasons.
While each month presents unique challenges and opportunities for laying turf especially with the extreme weather conditions we are seeing due to climate change. With careful planning and adherence to best practices, it’s possible to achieve a vibrant lawn throughout the year. By understanding the nuances of each season and adapting your approach accordingly, you can enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of a well-maintained lawn, regardless of the time of year.
If you are ever unsure of any aspects on laying turf our team are always here to help you. We can help you understand the right delivery dates for your turf to when you plan to lay it, points to consider when laying the turf and how to maintain your turf so it becomes well established.
